Things to Do in Coconut Grove, Miami

Coconut Grove, Miami’s oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood, is a lush tropical enclave that blends historic charm with modern sophistication. Once known as an artists’ colony, today it offers a mix of scenic parks, cultural landmarks, trendy boutiques, and world-class dining. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, here are the best things to do in Coconut Grove — tailored for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

🌳 Outdoor Activities & Nature Escapes

🌴 Peacock Park – This scenic waterfront park is ideal for families, picnics, and casual weekend strolls. Beyond its open green lawns, it offers a children’s playground, shaded benches, basketball courts, and frequent community events such as yoga classes and small concerts. Its proximity to Biscayne Bay gives you a relaxing view of sailboats and the downtown skyline. Address: 2820 McFarlane Rd. Hours: 7 AM–10 PM. Entry: Free.
🐶 David T. Kennedy Park – Spread across 20 acres of waterfront land, this beloved park is known for its scenic jogging paths, outdoor gym equipment, and pet-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy volleyball courts, a dog run, and wide open spaces for frisbee or yoga. Don’t miss the famous frozen lemonade stand that locals swear by on warm afternoons. There’s also ample parking and bike paths connecting to the rest of Coconut Grove. Address: 2400 S Bayshore Dr. Hours: Sunrise–sunset. Entry: Free.
⛵ Dinner Key Marina & Regatta Park – Florida’s largest marina, this area is a paradise for boating enthusiasts and photographers alike. You can watch sailboats dock, join a local sailing class, or simply enjoy a picnic on the grassy areas of Regatta Park next door. The marina is also home to several yacht charters and waterfront cafés where you can sip a drink while watching the sunset. Address: 3400–3500 Pan American Dr. Tips: Best visited in the afternoon for bay breezes and stunning golden-hour views.
🌿 The Barnacle Historic State Park – Step back in time at this charming 5-acre park, which preserves the 1891 home of pioneer Ralph Munroe. A shaded nature trail leads you past giant live oaks and mangroves before opening up to a breathtaking view of Biscayne Bay. The historic home gives visitors a glimpse into old Florida life, complete with antique furnishings and guided tours. Occasional outdoor concerts, picnics, and festivals are also hosted here, making it one of the Grove’s best-kept secrets. Address: 3485 Main Hwy. Hours: Fri–Wed 9 AM–5 PM. Entry: $2 (+$3 house tour).
🌺 The Kampong – Once the private estate of renowned plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild, The Kampong spans 9 lush acres filled with exotic flora from Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean. Visitors can walk among fruit trees, bamboo, and flowering plants that inspired the creation of Miami’s tropical landscape. Highlights include the Fairchilds’ original home, stunning ocean views, and rare specimens like the baobab tree and mango cultivars. Docent-led tours provide fascinating insight into botany, history, and environmental preservation. Address: 4013 S Douglas Rd. Hours: Tue–Sat 9 AM–4:30 PM. Admission: $17 adults. Tip: Reserve guided tour ahead.

🏛️ Cultural & Historical Attractions

🏰 Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Step into the grandeur of Miami’s Gilded Age at this magnificent Italian Renaissance-style villa built in the early 1900s for industrialist James Deering. The mansion features 34 lavishly decorated rooms filled with European antiques, paintings, and sculptures. Visitors can stroll through ten acres of formal gardens dotted with fountains, reflecting pools, and marble statues, all overlooking the shimmering waters of Biscayne Bay. Vizcaya’s café and gift shop make it easy to extend your visit, and guided tours reveal fascinating stories about its design and history. Address: 3251 S Miami Ave. Hours: Wed–Mon 9:30 AM–4:30 PM. Admission: $25 adults. Travel Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of morning light for photography.
⛪ Plymouth Congregational Church – Constructed in 1917 entirely by hand from native coral rock, this stunning church is one of the finest examples of Spanish Mission-style architecture in Florida. Its intricate façade, wooden doors, and peaceful courtyard transport visitors to a bygone era. The interior features stained-glass windows, handcrafted wooden pews, and a pipe organ still used in Sunday services. Guests can explore the grounds and admire the stone craftsmanship that reflects early Coconut Grove’s artistic spirit. Address: 3429 Devon Rd. Best For: Architecture enthusiasts and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat amid the city bustle.
🌍 Bahamian Heritage Trail – Discover the roots of Miami’s Bahamian community, whose settlers shaped Coconut Grove’s identity in the late 19th century. Begin at Christ Episcopal Church, built in 1901 as the heart of the Bahamian enclave, and continue along Charles Avenue to the E.W.F. Stirrup House—a preserved two-story home constructed entirely of Dade County pine by one of the Grove’s most influential residents. The trail ends at Charlotte Jane Memorial Park Cemetery, a serene resting place for many early settlers. Along the way, interpretive plaques share stories of resilience, craftsmanship, and cultural pride. Visitors can join walking tours to gain deeper insight into the Grove’s Afro-Caribbean legacy and its enduring influence on local cuisine, music, and art.

🛍️ Shopping & Local Markets

🏬 CocoWalk – The heart of Coconut Grove, CocoWalk is an open-air lifestyle center that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment. Its palm-lined walkways lead to upscale boutiques, bookstores, and casual cafés. Visitors can enjoy the rooftop bars for sunset views or catch a film at the Cinépolis Luxury Cinema featuring reclining seats and in-theater dining. Street performers and small weekend pop-ups add to the lively vibe. Address: 3015 Grand Ave. Hours: 10 AM–10 PM. Insider Tip: Stay after dark when the courtyard lights create a magical, tropical ambiance.
👗 Local Boutiques – Wander through the charming streets of Main Highway, Grand Avenue, and Commodore Plaza to discover one-of-a-kind boutiques. From designer apparel and handmade jewelry to art galleries and décor shops, every storefront tells a story. You’ll find local artisans selling Miami-inspired crafts, eco-friendly clothing, and luxury accessories. Many shops feature open-air patios and local coffee spots, making it easy to browse at a relaxed pace. Don’t miss small galleries like The Island Shop or boutique concept stores blending art with lifestyle items. Best Time to Visit: Late morning to early afternoon when the streets are calm and bright for photos.
🥭 Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Market – This long-running open-air market is a local institution. Every Saturday, the air fills with the aroma of tropical fruits, raw vegan dishes, and freshly squeezed juices. Vendors sell everything from organic mangoes and avocados to handmade soaps and natural health products. The highlight is the Glaser Organic Farms stand, famous for its raw key lime pie and fruit smoothies. Families and foodies gather here for brunch, community, and sunshine. Address: 3300 Grand Ave. Hours: 10 AM–6 PM. Entry: Free. Travel Tip: Bring cash and reusable bags; some stalls are cash-only and plastic-free.

🍽️ Dining & Culinary Highlights

🥞 GreenStreet Café – A Coconut Grove legend, GreenStreet is much more than a brunch spot—it’s the neighborhood’s social heart. Its outdoor patio lined with red cushions offers prime people-watching and a canopy of banyan trees overhead. Start your day with fluffy pancakes, huevos rancheros, or their signature French toast served with rich maple syrup. By evening, the café transforms into a lively cocktail lounge with twinkling lights and a tropical soundtrack. Expect warm service and a local crowd of artists, students, and professionals mingling over espresso martinis. Address: 3468 Main Hwy. Hours: Daily 7 AM–Late. Must-Try: Pancakes, truffle fries, and late-night mojitos.
🌮 Los Félix – This Michelin-starred modern Mexican eatery celebrates pre-Hispanic cooking traditions with a hip, artistic twist. Corn is nixtamalized in-house to create flavorful tortillas, while regional ingredients from Oaxaca and Yucatán shine in every dish. The intimate setting—with vinyl records playing and minimalist décor—sets the tone for a deeply authentic yet avant-garde experience. Expect innovative plates like bone marrow tacos and aguachile de camarón, complemented by a curated natural wine list. Address: 3413 Main Hwy. Hours: Dinner Tue–Sat. Website: losfelixmiami.com. Best For: Foodies seeking creativity and storytelling in every bite.
🦆 Ariete – Led by acclaimed chef Michael Beltran, Ariete merges classic French techniques with Cuban-American nostalgia. The cozy, oak-shaded dining room evokes old Miami charm, while the menu reinvents comfort food—try the duck press, smoked short ribs, or the wood-grilled oysters. On weekends, brunch brings decadent croissants, chilaquiles, and house-made pastries paired with fresh-squeezed mimosas. The wine list highlights boutique vineyards and pairs beautifully with the chef’s bold flavors. Address: 3540 Main Hwy. Hours: Dinner daily, brunch weekends. Atmosphere: Romantic, refined, yet relaxed.
🥗 Glass & Vine – Nestled inside Peacock Park, Glass & Vine invites guests to dine al fresco amid tropical foliage. The open kitchen serves seasonal American cuisine with Mediterranean flair—think grilled octopus, roasted cauliflower, and citrusy ceviches. Afternoon sunlight filters through the trees, creating a magical garden setting. As the sun sets, the space glows with soft lights and laughter from nearby parkgoers. Perfect for leisurely lunches, family gatherings, or sunset dinners. Address: 2820 McFarlane Rd. Tip: Pair your meal with their house sangria and sit near the edge of the park for bay breezes.
🍷 Peacock Garden Bistro – A lush escape in the heart of Coconut Grove, Peacock Garden Bistro feels like dining inside a secret garden. Wrought-iron furniture, hanging vines, and the scent of blooming flowers create an atmosphere of serenity. The menu features fresh seafood, salads, and signature pasta dishes. Couples love the quiet corners lit by fairy lights, while daytime visitors enjoy crisp rosé lunches under the palms. Address: 2889 McFarlane Rd. Signature Dish: Lobster ravioli or the garden burger.
🦞 Monty’s Raw Bar – A Grove institution since the 1960s, Monty’s combines waterfront relaxation with festive island energy. Guests can dig into platters of oysters, shrimp, and conch fritters while listening to live bands playing reggae and tropical rock. The tiki-style bar serves frozen cocktails and local brews, and a poolside patio lets you dip your feet while enjoying sunset views of Dinner Key Marina. It’s a favorite hangout for both locals and sailors just off the boat. Address: 2550 S Bayshore Dr. Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–Late. Don’t Miss: Happy hour with peel‑and‑eat shrimp and the signature piña colada.

🎧 Nightlife & Entertainment

🍺 Taurus Beer & Whiskey House – A historic dive bar that’s been serving patrons since 1911, Taurus is a Coconut Grove institution. Its dark wooden interior, vintage décor, and dim lighting create an inviting speakeasy ambiance. Patrons can choose from an impressive selection of craft beers, fine whiskeys, and specialty cocktails. Live acoustic performances and open-mic nights keep the vibe lively, while outdoor seating lets guests mingle under twinkling lights. Best For: Locals and travelers looking for authenticity and great conversation. Tip: Try their signature old fashioned.
🎱 Barracuda Taphouse & Grill – This lively neighborhood bar is beloved for its casual charm and laid-back atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find pool tables, surf memorabilia, and sports playing on multiple TVs. The bar offers a strong selection of local and imported beers, plus classic bar bites like fish tacos, sliders, and wings. On weekends, the place fills with students, artists, and locals sharing pitchers and stories. Vibe: Fun, casual, and unpretentious. Must-try: Their craft beer flights and Friday-night karaoke sessions.
🌇 Level 6 Rooftop – Perched atop CocoWalk, Level 6 is one of the Grove’s most glamorous nightlife spots. This rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and a stylish open-air setting with soft lighting, modern décor, and a curated playlist of deep house and Latin-inspired beats. Guests can enjoy creative tapas, hand-crafted cocktails, and fine wines while watching the sun set over the bay. It’s an ideal venue for date nights or group celebrations. Insider Tip: Arrive before dusk to capture stunning sunset photos and secure a spot on the terrace.
🎬 Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas – A premium movie-going experience right in the heart of CocoWalk. The theater features plush reclining seats, gourmet snacks, and full waiter service directly to your seat. Beyond mainstream films, Cinepolis often screens independent and international movies, making it a cultural treat for film enthusiasts. It’s perfect for couples or families wanting an upscale yet cozy movie night. Bonus: Grab a cocktail from the lounge bar before or after your show for the full experience.

🎉 Annual Festivals & Events

🎨 Coconut Grove Arts Festival (February) – Florida’s most renowned outdoor art event transforms the waterfront into a lively open-air gallery. Over three days, more than 280 artists display their works in painting, sculpture, photography, and crafts, drawing tens of thousands of visitors. Street performers, live jazz bands, and gourmet food trucks line the streets, while families can visit interactive art zones and kids’ workshops. Locals consider it a yearly tradition, and the scenic bay views make it a photographer’s dream. Best Tip: Arrive early to explore before the midday crowds and bring sun protection for the open spaces.
🪘 Goombay Festival (June) – A vibrant Caribbean-style street celebration honoring Coconut Grove’s Bahamian heritage. The festival brings the island spirit to life with colorful Junkanoo parades, live calypso and reggae bands, and mouthwatering Bahamian cuisine—think conch fritters, jerk chicken, and Johnnycakes. The event takes over Grand Avenue, filling it with laughter, dance, and the smell of spices in the air. Cultural exhibits tell the story of early Bahamian settlers who shaped the Grove’s history. Highlight: Families can join dance contests or sample traditional dishes while enjoying tropical rhythms.
🥭 King Mango Strut (December/January) – Miami’s quirkiest parade is part comedy show, part local satire, and all-out fun. Every year, residents march through Coconut Grove’s streets dressed in outrageous costumes that poke fun at pop culture and politics. Expect homemade floats, kazoo bands, and plenty of laughter from the sidelines. The parade is followed by block parties with live music, street food, and creative performances. Pro Tip: Bring a camera—this event is full of unexpected, hilarious moments that perfectly capture the Grove’s eccentric spirit.
🍻 Grovetoberfest (October) – South Florida’s largest craft beer festival takes over Regatta Park for a day of tastings and music. More than 100 breweries participate, offering everything from local Miami favorites to international brands. Attendees enjoy unlimited sampling, food pairings, and homebrewing demos while listening to live rock and indie bands. VIP passes grant early access and shaded seating areas with exclusive selections. Tip: Go in the late afternoon to catch both the daytime energy and the golden sunset over Biscayne Bay.
🎆 July 4th Fireworks at Peacock Park – A classic summer tradition in Coconut Grove. Families spread blankets on the grass as live bands play patriotic tunes and local vendors serve ice cream, barbecue, and lemonade. As dusk falls, the Miami skyline glows and fireworks illuminate Biscayne Bay in a dazzling display of color. The event is free, kid-friendly, and easily accessible by foot or trolley. Insider Tip: Arrive an hour early to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy pre-show entertainment featuring the Miami Symphony Orchestra.

🚗 Getting Around & Travel Tips

Coconut Grove sits just 15 minutes south of Downtown Miami, making it one of the city’s most accessible and walkable neighborhoods. The area is served by several convenient transport options that make exploring simple and stress-free. Parking garages are available near CocoWalk and along Grand Avenue, but spots can fill quickly on weekends or during major festivals. Travelers arriving by Metrorail can disembark at the Coconut Grove Station, located about a mile west of the village center, and continue the journey using the free Coconut Grove Trolley that runs every 15–20 minutes. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are abundant and ideal for short hops between attractions such as Vizcaya, Dinner Key Marina, and Peacock Park.

Once in the Grove, walking is the best way to soak up the laid-back vibe. The streets are shaded by towering banyan trees and lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés that encourage leisurely exploration. Visitors can also rent a CitiBike to cruise along the bayfront paths or use scooters to zip between landmarks. Cyclists will appreciate the Grove’s connection to the Rickenbacker Causeway bike trail, offering scenic rides toward Key Biscayne.

If you plan to visit nearby areas like Coral Gables, Brickell, or South Beach, public buses and ride-share options are affordable and quick. For those staying overnight, many hotels provide complimentary bikes or shuttle services. Pro Tip: Download the Miami-Dade Transit Tracker app to check real-time trolley and bus arrivals. By blending walking, biking, and public transport, visitors can enjoy Coconut Grove’s charm without worrying about traffic or parking hassles.

🏨 Where to Stay

🏝️ Mr. C Miami – Coconut Grove – A luxurious escape blending Italian sophistication with Miami’s tropical vibe. Each room features private balconies overlooking Biscayne Bay, elegant nautical décor, and modern amenities such as in-room espresso machines. Guests can unwind at the rooftop pool with panoramic views, enjoy signature cocktails at the Bellini Bar, or dine at the chic Bellini Restaurant serving Venetian‑inspired dishes. The hotel also offers spa services, a fitness center, and complimentary bikes for exploring the Grove. Ideal for: Couples seeking romance and refined comfort.
🌿 Mayfair House Hotel & Garden – A creative boutique hotel known for its lush courtyard gardens, Art Nouveau architecture, and local art displays. Each suite is uniquely decorated, many with private balconies or outdoor soaking tubs. The rooftop pool bar offers craft cocktails and sunset views, while the on‑site restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and tropical flavors. Its central location makes it easy to walk to CocoWalk, parks, and cafes. Best for: Design lovers and travelers who appreciate a blend of nature and artistry.
🏠 The Mutiny Hotel – Perfect for families and extended stays, The Mutiny features spacious one‑ and two‑bedroom suites with full kitchens, living areas, and private balconies. Guests enjoy resort‑style amenities including an outdoor heated pool, sauna, and fitness center. The hotel’s in‑house restaurant serves American‑Caribbean fusion dishes, and concierge services can arrange tours or boating excursions. Its relaxed atmosphere and prime location near Dinner Key Marina make it a convenient and comfortable base for exploring Coconut Grove. Best for: Families or business travelers seeking space and value.

🌸 In Summary

Coconut Grove is a tropical haven where old-world charm meets modern lifestyle. Whether you’re kayaking at sunrise, brunching under banyan trees, or enjoying cocktails at sunset, the Grove’s warmth and creativity leave a lasting impression. It’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking Miami’s relaxed, soulful side.